Program Handbook Concert Attire Equipment Auditions Jazz Bands Cal High offers two jazz performance classes for student musicians. Jazz Band is open to all students with at least one year of experience and focuses on styles like blues, swing, and improvisation, performing at school concerts and fundraisers. Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, audition-based group that explores challenging jazz styles and theory, performing at school events and a spring festival. For more information, read details for each class below. JAZZ BAND (JAZZ B) The Jazz Band is a class open to all musicians wishing to learn about and improve upon various jazz styles, including the blues, swing, and improvisation. Students are recommended to have at least one year of playing experience on a wind or rhythm section instrument. The Jazz Band participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers. JAZZ ENSEMBLE (JAZZ A - AUDITION BASED) The Jazz Ensemble is an advanced, auditioned ensemble comprised of saxophones, trumpets, trombone, and rhythm section instruments. Students may audition for Jazz Ensemble at the end of the school year. This class covers advanced jazz repertoire in various styles including Latin, Swing, and Rock/Funk, as well as jazz music theory concepts. The Jazz Ensemble participates in all school concerts and program fundraisers as well as a CMEA or NCBA festival during the Spring. Note: Auditions for Jazz Ensemble is now closed for the 2025-2026 school year. Information for the following year will be published in the Spring. Equipment, Attire & Auditions: Stores & Equipment Concert Attire Auditions For more information about Jazz Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Program Handbook Winds & Percussion Marching Band Stores and Equipment Recommended Online Stores Woodwind & Brasswind (recommended for band instruments and supplies) www.wwbw.com/ Sweetwater Sound (recommended for guitars, keyboards, drums and electronics) www.sweetwater.com Steve Weiss Music (recommended for percussion instruments and equipment) www.steveweissmusic.com Interested in purchasing or renting an instrument? Contact rgrigas@srvusd.net and bberastain@srvusd.net . Winds & Percussion Recommended Equipment Woodwinds Cleaning Swab (all woodwinds) Recommended for flute: BG Flute Cleaning Swab Microfiber Recommended for clarinet: GEM Silk Clarinet Swab Recommended for saxophone/bass clarinet: BG Saxophone Swabs Recommended for oboe/bassoon: GEM Silk Double Reed Swabs Cork Grease (all reed instruments) Recommended for all reed instruments: Vandoren Cork Grease Tube Single Reeds (clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophones) Recommended reeds: Vandoren Reeds or Rico Royal Reeds Double Reeds Recommended oboe reeds: TBD Recommended bassoon reeds: Danzi Student Bassoon Reeds (blue wrap) Brass Valve Oil (trumpet, mellophone, baritone/euphonium, tuba) Recommended valve oil: Yamaha Regular Synthetic Valve Oil Rotor Oil (French Horn, trombone with F attachment, bass trombone) Recommended rotor oil: Hetman Light Rotor Lubricant Slide Lubricant (trombone) Recommended slide lubricant: Slide-O-Mix Lubricant System Percussion Concert Drum Sticks (for Symphonic Band/Wind Ensemble percussionists) Recommended concert drum sticks: Vic Firth SD-1 General Drumsticks or Innovative Percussion IP-1 General Concert Snare Drumsticks Practice Pad and Stand Recommended practice pad: Evans RealFeel 2-Sided Pad 12-Inch Recommended stand: Lone Star Percussion Snare/Practice Pad Stand Mallets (provided by music program) Marching Band Equipment Required rehearsal items: 3 ring binder with sheet protectors for all music/exercises Rehearsal Water Jug Recommended: Coleman 1-gallon Beverage Cooler Jug Flip Folders and Lyres (required for wind musicians) Flip Folders: https://www.wwbw.com/Flip-Folders.wwbw Brass Lyres: https://www.wwbw.com/Brass-Lyres.wwbw Woodwind Lyres: https://www.wwbw.com/Woodwind-Lyres.wwbw (see Mr. Rugani if you are unsure of which lyre/flip folder to buy) Ear protection (required for drumline members) Recommended: Vic Firth Regular High Fidelity Ear Plugs Mechanical pencil 3x5 spiral notebook for drill (provided at Band Camp) Shoe lace or string to hang dotbook around neck during rehearsal A hat Sunglasses Sunscreen Weather appropriate athletic clothes that facilitates movement (NO jeans) Close toed tennis shoes and socks (NO flip flops or sandals)

Calendar of Events Booster Club Bylaws Become a Volunteer INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTER CLUB We are a dedicated non-profit organization made up of Band, Color Guard, and Orchestra families who share a passion for supporting music education at California High School. As boosters, we play a vital role in enriching the Cal High Instrumental Music program through fundraising efforts, coordinating volunteers, and assisting the Band Director with planning and executing events throughout the year. Any parent, guardian, or caretaker that has a student in the Instrumental Music Program is automatically considered a valued member of our supportive music community. Their involvement plays a vital role in enhancing the overall experience for all students, whether through volunteering, attending performances, participating in booster meetings, or contributing in other meaningful ways. We encourage all families to stay engaged, as their presence and support help foster a vibrant, inclusive, and successful program for our young musicians. We hold monthly meetings during the school year, beginning in August, where we share updates, discuss upcoming events, and collaborate on ways to strengthen our program. Attending these meetings is a great opportunity to stay informed, have your voice heard, and connect with other music families. Active participation in the Booster Club allows you to make a direct impact on your student’s experience, help shape memorable performances and trips, and be part of a supportive, music-loving community. BOOSTER CLUB MEETINGS Join us for our Booster Club meetings everyone is welcome! These gatherings are a great way to stay connected on the latest news about what's happening, share ideas, and support our incredible student musicians. Whether you're a new parent or a returning volunteer, your voice and energy make a difference. Come be part of the fun and help us make this year unforgettable! All parents of current students are encouraged to attend! SCHEDULE Join us for our Booster Club meetings, held on the third Thursday of each month from 7:00 to 8:00 PM in the Band Room. Attend in person or conveniently virtually, we’d love to see you there! Dates for 2025-2026 Booster Meetings (click on date for meeting notes): 0 8/21 , 9/18, 10/16, 11/20, 12/18, 01/15, 02/19, 03/19, 04/16, 05/21 Virtual Link https://meet.google.com/dwo-sdhs-fyj 2025-2026 BOOSTER EXECUTIVE BOARD Vice President: Zenaida President: Julie Treasurer: Megan Secretary: Arti Fundraising: Kelly & Debora 2024-2025 BOOSTER CLUB COMMITTEE LEADS Hospitality - *Kads Lele - Lead, Varsha Govindani, Christian Mattei Volunteer Coordinator - Zenaida Abadam Newsletter Coordinator - Booster Executive Board Pit Boss - Jeremy Fogelman Transportation Coordinator - Bob Burlingame Prop Boss - Walt Rugani & Dan Rugani Spiritwear Coordinator - Arti Arora Webmaster - Kelly Cardinalli Photographer - Raju Bhupatiraju Elementary/Middle School Recruitment - Dan Rugani and Briana Berastain End of Season Banquet (Marching Ensemble) - Zenaida Abadam, Christine Helmer, Georgine Brenghause Open Chair Positions Grant Writer Alumni Coordinator

REMIND Text Communication What is REMIND and why is it safe? REMIND is a text messaging system that the Cal High Instrumental Music program utilizes to facilitate effective program communication. It is a great way to receive notifications from the Band Director about important events and updates. Two-Way communication is used during trips and events for emergency situations. With REMIND, all personal information remains completely confidential. Sign Up for REMIND! Parents & Students: Please send the text message (for the appropriate group) to the number listed below. Note: Marching Band is separated by the graduation year. You may be prompted to enter your first and last name. Do NOT use nicknames. Remember to capitalize the first letter of each. Example: Jason Rodgers MARCHING BAND & COLOR GUARD (Students & Parents): Class of 2022, text the code @mbcg22 to the number 81010 Class of 2023, text the code @mbcg23 to the number 81010 Class of 2024, text the code @mbcg24 to the number 81010 Class of 2025, text the code @mbcg25 to the number 81010 INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BOOSTERS (Parents only): Text the code @boostcal to the number 81010 CLASS ENSEMBLES (Students only): Symphonic Band, text the code @symphcal to the number 81010 Wind Ensemble, text the code @windcal to the number 81010 Jazz Band, text the code @jazzbcal to the number 81010 Jazz Ensemble, text the code @jazzencal to the number 81010 Getting Here

Frequently Asked Questions How do I join Band or Color Guard? Visit the JOIN! page to find information on how to join any of our ensembles as well as how to sign up for Band Camp. The Marching Band and Color Guard season begins with Band Camp in early August. Families are encouraged to sign up for Band Camp by July so that you are added to the Fall season roster. Is Band Camp mandatory? All students planning on participating in our Fall Marching Band and Color Guard unit are expected to attend our BAND CAMP at the beginning of August. If an unavoidable conflict arises where a student cannot make this event, they must contact the band director to be put on the roster so that they do not fall behind. Does Marching Band count towards Physical Education credit? Yes! Students need 2 years of P.E. and are required to complete one of those years as a Freshmen. Two seasons of Marching Band will count toward the second year of P.E. Are students required to be in the marching band if they are enrolled in an instrumental class? Students enrolled in any band class are strongly encouraged to attend Band Camp in August. Besides being one of the most popular performing groups on campus, marching band is a great opportunity to make friends and improve your skills dramatically by learning from our incredible instructional staff. Our Fall marching season runs from August through mid-November. Is it safe to play together on campus yet? Yes, instrumental ensembles in the SRVUSD have been meeting in person for safe outdoor rehearsals. All decisions made regarding student safety will be made with district and administrative approval. As safety guidelines change, we will continue to monitor all CDC, state, county and district guidance and regulations as we create performer protocols for students to return to in-person playing for the coming school year. What costs are associated with joining the music program? All students participating in an instrumental music ensemble are asked to submit a Fair Share Participant Contribution. Details on Participant Contribution amounts are covered at the Band Camp parent meeting, during classes, and during Back to School Night at the start of the year. You can find info on our PARTICIPANT CONTRIBUTION page. All payments are made via Cal High’s FutureFund registration system. Can I join Band as a Sophomore/ Junior/ Senior? Yes! It is never too late to join any of our ensembles! Do I have to audition to join an instrumental ensemble? Students do not need to audition to join Marching Band & Color Guard, Symphonic Band, Orchestra or Winter Guard/Percussion. Advanced ensembles such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble do require an audition. As an incoming Freshman, can I audition to be placed in an advanced ensemble? Incoming students are allowed to audition for advanced ensembles, but this is decided mainly based on instrumentation need. Freshmen musicians should expect to be enrolled in an entry-level ensemble. Can I join Band if I don't play an instrument? Yes! We encourage any student interested in learning a new wind or percussion instrument to sign up for Symphonic Band and Marching Band! Can students check out instruments from the school? Large wind instruments (tuba, trombone, baritone, bass clarinet, tenor/bari sax) are available for check out. We have some smaller instruments available for check out (flutes, clarinets, trumpets, alto saxophones) on a very limited basis. String instruments are available on a limited basis. Families will need to fill out an instrument rental agreement form to use a school-owned instrument. As a parent, how can I get involved? All parents are encouraged to participate in our Cal High Instrumental Music Booster club! There are many positions and committees to serve on, including equipment road crew, hospitality, spirit wear, social media, photographer/videographer, and helping with various events throughout the year! Go to our VOLUNTEER page to learn more! How long is the marching band season? Does marching band go all year? Our Marching Band season lasts from Band Camp (beginning of August) through mid-November. See our Marching Band and Color Guard Rehearsal Schedule on our MARCHING BAND page What is the time commitment for Marching Band rehearsals? The Cal High Marching Band and Color Guard meets on Monday and Wednesday evenings during the Fall, as well as some Saturday afternoon/evenings. The Marching Band performs at all Friday home football games as well as 4-5 Saturday field competitions and a few parades and rallies in the Fall. Can a student join marching band and also participate in sports or other extra-curricular activities? Yes! Our Marching Band and Color Guard students are involved in many sports and clubs! The Band Director meets with coaches to create a conflict schedule so that Band/Sports students always know where they need to be on a given day. Do ensembles participate in Spring performance tours? Our advanced ensembles have the opportunity to participate in a Spring Performance Tour. These trips are dependent on amount of student sign-ups and ensemble fundraising. Where can families go to learn about upcoming music events? Go to the EVENTS page. We will also share event updates via our Facebook and Instagram accounts, and we send out a regular Instrumental Music newsletter to enrolled families.

Program Sign Up Marching Ensemble Course Elective WHY JOIN? Improves Cognitive and Academic Performance Music education doesn’t just build musical talent—it sharpens the brain. Studies consistently show that students involved in music perform better academically, particularly in math, reading, and language skills. Learning an instrument strengthens memory, enhances concentration, and promotes higher-level thinking—all essential for academic success. Enhances Social Skills Being part of a musical ensemble is one of the most effective ways for students to build teamwork and communication skills. It requires listening closely, working toward a common goal, and respecting others' contributions. These shared experiences naturally foster meaningful friendships and a strong sense of belonging—something every student needs. Boosts Mental Health Music is a powerful emotional outlet and a proven stress reliever. It gives students a way to express what words sometimes can’t, while also offering a sense of accomplishment and joy. For many, being part of a music program becomes a safe and uplifting space that supports their mental and emotional well-being. Develops Creativity and Self-Expression Music opens the door to creativity in a way few other activities can. Whether composing, improvising, or performing, students are encouraged to explore their unique voice. This freedom to create and express themselves builds not just artistic skills, but also imagination, open-mindedness, and innovation. Encourages Confidence and Self-Discipline Mastering an instrument or performing in front of an audience takes courage, focus, and perseverance. Students in music programs gain confidence through achievement and learn the value of consistent practice and preparation. These habits of self-discipline and resilience translate into all areas of life, setting them up for long-term success. Marching Ensemble Marching Ensemble Carrying on a long tradition of excellence, the California High School Marching Ensemble is one of the finest marching units in the Tri-Valley area. It is the largest performance ensemble at Cal High and has a strong history of competitive success. You will see them performing year-round at football games, school rallies, local parades and field competitions. Learn more about Marching Ensemble program and about Band Camp . Email Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net with any questions! Elective Course Register for an Instrumental Music Elective Course! ACCESS SRVUSD COURSE CATALOG Courses Offerings Marching Band & Color Guard (All grades) Concert Band (All Grades) Symphonic Band (All grades) Wind Ensemble (All grades, by audition) String Orchestra (All grades) Chamber Orchestra (All grades, by audition) Jazz Band (All grades) Jazz Ensemble (All grades, by audition) Students wishing to take Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band or String Orchestra can register during student registration in March. Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, and Wind Ensemble will require auditions in addition to registering. Read below for audition information: Chamber Orchestra Audition submissions due Tuesday, April 8th at 11:59pm, click here for information. Concert Bands Audition information is located on the google classroom. The code is 6einh5yh All Wind auditions need to be submitted to the google folder by Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Jazz Bands Audition information is located on the google classroom. The code is sxpkigt Please submit all auditions to the google classroom by Wednesday, April 30th, 2025. Playing with the combo will be held after school in the Cal High Band Room on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 from 2:30pm - 5:30pm. Improvisation for drums will be held after school in the Cal High Band Room on Thursday ,May 1st, 2025 from 4:00pm - 5:00pm. For more detailed information about each instrumental class see our "ENSE MBLES" page. CONTACT INFORMATION: Orchestra Director: Ms. Willis: lwillis@srvusd.net Symphonic Band, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band & Jazz Ensemble: Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net Marching Band & Color Guard: Mr. Grigas: rgrigas@srvusd.net

Awards & Regalia Concert Attire program handbook Stores & Equipment program sign up Honor Bands Resources Want to stay organized and informed throughout the school year? Our collection of resource pages is your one-stop hub for everything you need to support your student’s success in the Cal High Instrumental Music Program. Start with the Store & Equipment page, where you’ll find links to required gear, spirit wear, and options for purchasing or borrowing instruments. The Music Handbook is essential reading - it outlines key policies, expectations, and procedures for all students involved in band, orchestra, and color guard. For students eager to grow musically and socially, don’t miss the Honor Bands page. These advanced ensembles offer students the chance to perform challenging music, build connections with talented peers across the region and beyond, and gain valuable experience for college scholarship auditions. Visit the Awards & Regalia section to learn about special recognitions available to our musicians, including “Varsity” Block Letters, Honor Cords, and Graduation Stoles that celebrate commitment and achievement. Our Concert Attire page provides dress requirements for each class and emphasizes the importance of a clean, polished, and professional appearance to reflect ensemble pride. Whether you’re new or returning, be sure to complete the Music Program Sign-Up Form to officially register for the upcoming season. These resource pages are designed to keep you informed, connected, and ready for an exciting and successful year in music!

Program Handbook Concert Attire Equipment Auditions Concert Bands Cal High offers three concert band classes that provide a structured pathway for musical growth at every level. From developing fundamental techniques to mastering advanced ensemble performance, each class is tailored to meet students where they are in their musical journey. Whether you're just building your skills or ready for the challenge of honors-level repertoire, there's a place for you in our band program. Learn more about each ensemble below. CONCERT BAND Open to all students with prior experience on a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument or those exploring a second instrument, this class focuses on developing instrumental technique through a diverse range of wind band literature. Students will also explore music theory, historical and cultural context, and make meaningful connections to other academic disciplines, enriching both their musical and educational journey. SYMPHONIC BAND (AUDITION BASED) This class builds on intermediate and advanced instrumental techniques through the study of a wide range of challenging wind band literature. Students will engage in a deeper exploration of musical elements, historical and cultural context, and interdisciplinary connections. Incoming 9th graders with advanced experience are encouraged to audition. WIND ENSEMBLE (AUDITION BASED, HONORS BAND) This honors-level course is designed for advanced musicians looking to further develop their skills through the study of sophisticated wind ensemble literature. The class emphasizes advanced instrumental techniques and includes an in-depth exploration of musical elements, historical and cultural context, and interdisciplinary connections. Note: Auditions for Symphonic & Wind Ensemble are now closed for the 2025-2026 school year. Information for the following year will be published in the Spring. For more information about Concert Bands, contact the Band Director Mr. Grigas at rgrigas@srvusd.net

Area Band Festival March 18 , 2026 🎶 Area Band Festival 🎶 📅 Wednesday, March 18, 2026 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 🕖 Concert begins at 7:00 PM Join us for an inspiring evening of music as student musicians from across our local schools come together for the Area Band Festival — a celebration of dedication, growth, and the shared journey of learning an instrument. From first notes to confident performances, this concert highlights every stage of the musical path and showcases the incredible work of our young performers and directors who guide them along the way. Featuring Performances By Elementary Schools Bollinger Canyon Country Club Golden View John Baldwin Montevideo Neil Armstrong Twin Creeks Walt Disney Middle Schools Iron Horse Pine Valley High School California High School 🎶 A Celebration of Music & Community 🎶 From first notes to polished performances, the Area Band Festival highlights the collaborative spirit of our elementary, middle, and high school music programs. Our dedicated music educators are proud to share the results of months of hard work, growth, and commitment from their students. Families, friends, and community members are warmly invited to enjoy an evening of beautiful music while supporting our young musicians and the journey they are just beginning. 🎶 Student Performer Information 📅 Wednesday, March 18, 2026 To help ensure a smooth and successful performance day, please review the rehearsal and arrival details below. 🎺 Dress Rehearsal Schedule Elementary Band 🕗 8:00–10:00 AM 📍 California High School – Band Room 🚗 Drop-off: Front of the Music Building 6th Grade Band 🕞 3:30–4:30 PM 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 7th & 8th Grade Band 🕟 4:30–5:30 PM 📍 California High School – Event Center (aka Large Gym) 🎼 Evening Concert Call Time (All Performers) 🕡 6:30 PM 📍 Check-In Location: Music Building Please check in and drop off instrument cases upon arrival. 👔 Attire & Materials Please refer to your director’s instructions for concert attire and any required materials to bring. Rehearsal/Performance Map

MEDIA INSTAGRAM Instrumental Program: @calhighmusic Color Guard: @calhighguard Percussion: @calhighpercussion Orchestra: @californiahighorchestras Music Boosters: @calhighmusicboosters FACEBOOK @calhighmusic YOUTUBE @CalHighMusic

Leadership Expectations Leadership Application Submit Audition Videos Student Leadership The Cal High Band Leadership Team is a vital part of our Instrumental Music program, playing a key role in supporting students and maintaining program expectations. Our leadership structure beginning with the Band Director and extending through the Drum Major and Section Leaders is essential to the success of both our band and guard. Student leaders are expected to take responsibility for their section’s preparedness at rehearsals, performances, and beyond, and also be responsible to their section by fostering a positive, high-level learning environment. To be eligible for a leadership position, students must be enrolled in Marching Band. Applications open near the end of the school year, and dedicated, responsible students are encouraged to apply. LEADERSHIP APPLICATION Students considering applying for leadership will need to fill out a Google Form application which includes a short answer essay section. (Google form will be posted in March) DRUM MAJOR AUDITION Those interested in the role of Drum Major will submit a conducting video audition in addition to filling out a Leadership Application. (Drum Major application requirements posted in March) Please email drum major audition videos to calhighmusic.auditions@gmail.com SELECTION PROCESS Leadership is chosen by the Band Director based on quality of application responses, audition performance (for drum majors), a student's yearly performance, and consultation with teachers, administrators, instructional staff and boosters. The Band Director may ask to sit down with applicants for an interview prior to selecting the leadership team. 2025-2026 Leadership Team Drum Majors Om Iyer & Yasasri Chintapalli Section Leaders Flutes: Cindy Li Reeds: Aathirai Arunkumar High Brass: Josh Mann Low Brass: Zailey Fogelman Battery Captain: Owen Burlingame Front Ensemble: Akshay Mahendran Color Guard Co Captains: Hannah Ly & Naomi Parsons Managers Equipment Manager: Kaleo Abadam Community Engagement Manager: Mercy Rajan Uniform Manager: Amiia Lyons Locker Manager: JD Cardinalli Librarians: Xiaolei Zhang & Kate Shu